How to Succeed in Neurology

Now that I’m post-match, I’m finishing up my last requirements of medical school. One of our 4th-year requirements is a clinical neurology clerkship. Most medical schools require this during the 3rd-year, but given our schedule, many of us do not rotate on this clerkship until our 4th-year. It’s one of those clerkships, upon reflecting, that has been very useful. A few tips that helped me do well on my neurology rotation:

The clerkship has a Shelf exam with it. If you take this during 3rd-year, you’re used to these tests. But if you’re like me and take it at the end of 4th-year, you’ve forgotten how to sit and study for a shelf. Do plenty of practice test questions.

This clerkship reminded me of a medicine clerkship. There is a lot of discussion around differential diagnoses in the assessment and plan. There is also a lot of discussion on localization and function. Relearn your neuroanatomy, especially the spinal cord.

The differential for neurologic problems is huge. From endocrine to trauma to vascular. And don’t forget lupus. Or syphilis.

You’ll get really good at the neurologic exam. From cranial nerves to sensory, motor and cerebellar function. Bring your own reflex hammer.

Acute changes in neuro status matter. Know the difference within the strength and reflex scales.

TR

MS4 at Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine

A native of the Pacific Northwest, TR studied international studies at the University of Washington. With absolutely no interest in medicine at the time, TR joined Teach For America, where he taught AP Chemistry in Detroit to the most incredible students. During his classroom experience, TR saw the parallels between health and education, and how his students’ lack of access to proper healthcare was dramatically affecting their classroom performance. He also saw how the effects of trauma were long-lasting and extended beyond the healthcare environment. He is interested in trauma surgery, specifically focused on urban communities, in hopes of providing accessible and quality treatment for disadvantaged communities.
Outside of the classroom, TR is involved as Student Body President. He is also a former Urban Health Scholar and Schweitzer Fellow. He is an avid runner, rower, beginner chef, and can spend hours explaining his love of cheese.

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